Donor withdraws planned gift to Westfield State

BOSTON (AP) — A donor who had planned a $100,000 gift to Westfield State University says he is withdrawing the offer in light of revelations that the college's president spent lavishly.

John P. Walsh, president of Elizabeth Grady cosmetics, told The Boston Globe (http://bo.st/12OoT47 ) in an email he is withdrawing his offer to the college's foundation, which raises money for scholarships and other educational programs, unless President Evan Dobelle either steps down or reimburses the college.

A report found that Dobelle billed the foundation for more than $200,000 in travel, meals and entertainment. Dobelle said the spending has been to promote the university and repaid some.

In reaction to the withdrawal of Walsh's gift, Dobelle said in a statement that Walsh never formally pledged the $100,000. He also invited Walsh to contact him.